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Individuality in Corncrake Crex crex vocalizations
Author(s) -
PEAKE T. M.,
McGREGOR P. K.,
SMITH K. W.,
TYLER G.,
GILBERT G.,
GREEN R. E.
Publication year - 1998
Publication title -
ibis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.933
H-Index - 80
eISSN - 1474-919X
pISSN - 0019-1019
DOI - 10.1111/j.1474-919x.1998.tb04548.x
Subject(s) - optimal distinctiveness theory , discriminant function analysis , threatened species , linear discriminant analysis , psychology , computer science , ecology , biology , artificial intelligence , social psychology , machine learning , habitat
Vocal individuality has potential for the monitoring of bird species that are otherwise difficult to observe. In this study we assessed the potential of this technique for the monitoring of the globally threatened Corncrake Crex crex based on the analysis of calls recorded in Ireland and Scotland in 1993 and 1994. Discriminant function analysis correctly attributed >80% of individual calls based on five temporal parameters. A high level of individual distinctiveness was also found in the fine temporal structure of calls. When information on fine structure was added to the discriminant function analysis, classification of calls to individuals was improved to 100%. The structure of an individual's call was found to be consistent over the 2‐year period. This study highlighted the problemsassociated with setting criteria for re‐identifying individuals by calls. The consequences of these problems and the potential of vocal individuality for providing monitoring information in this species are discussed.